A CORNISH group dedicated to preserving the stories of nurses, VADs (Voluntary Aid Detachments), doctors, and other women who contributed to the war effort, is set to join the annual Poppies to Paddington operation on Armistice Day.

Each year the operation seeks to remember thousands of soldiers whose sacrifices in the First World War went unrecognised for generations.

The seventh Poppies to Paddington operation will mark 110 years since the Battle of the Somme, one of the bloodiest campaigns in military history, and recognise the contribution of soldiers from across the Commonwealth, including thousands of those who served in the British Indian Army whose service and sacrifice have only recently been formally acknowledged.

Working with Network Rail and in partnership with The Veterans Charity, hundreds of wreaths will be carried to London Paddington on services from across the GWR network, where they will be laid at the iconic War Memorial on Platform 1.

Joining a poppy service from Bodmin Parkway will be Sue Robinson, founder of Cornwall’s Wenches in Trenches, an organisation that researches, commemorates and shares the stories of women who served during the First World War.

Sue, 79, said she was inspired to form Wenches in Trenches as a tribute to her grannie Isabella Robinson (known as Flossie), who served as a VAD in the French Red Cross from 1915-1919, before going on to enjoy a nursing career spanning nearly 50 years.

“Flossie had so many incredible stories to tell from her time in nursing, particularly during the war, and there were thousands of women with like-minded tales to tell,” said Sue.

“They said these women will shine in history – and it's our job to ensure they shine as brightly as possible by keeping their stories alive.

“I’ve just undergone another knee operation but I was determined to join this year’s Poppies to Paddington operation and, thanks to the Veterans Charity putting me in touch, I’m thrilled be taking part for the first time.”

​At Paddington, members of the Armed Forces, veterans, railway colleagues and special guests will observe a two-minute silence at 11am to honour those lost in past and present conflicts.

GWR Managing Director, Mark Hopwood CBE, said: “Poppies to Paddington is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by so many people, from across our communities and around the world, in the service of others.

“This year we want to further shine a light on those whose contributions to the First World War went unrecognised for generations. The discovery of thousands of previously forgotten soldiers is a poignant reminder that Remembrance must reflect everyone who served and sacrificed their lives.

“We are proud that the railway can once again bring people together for this important Act of Remembrance, honouring the fallen and recognising the continuing contribution of our Armed Forces community.”